Enhancing partnerships between UK institutions and developing countries, to allow sharing of best practice.

Lord Crisp has also recommended an 'eBay-style' website where countries can publicise their need for health resources.

The GHWA is an international partnership set up in May 2006 to raise awareness, bring together and maximise current efforts of governments, donors and agencies to tackle the shortage of doctors and nurses in the world’s poorest countries.

Secretary of State for Health, Patricia Hewitt, said: 'Lord Crisp's report is a crucial contribution to the way the UK contributes to strengthening the health capacity of the poorest parts of the world. Government now needs to look at how it can work together to take forward these recommendations, to support developing country plans and add practical value to work already underway.

'Many NHS staff have close links with developing countries - and already make a real contribution to health services in poorer countries.'